I like to have my nails painted (and hopefully unchipped!) at all times and I hate when I have to redo them too often. I have found that this nail polish goes on very smooth and lasts long when used with a base and topcoat. Alone, it doesn't work as well, but with the extra coats it has lasted up to a week with only small chips. I use Sally Hansen 2 in 1 base and topcoat, but I know that is not the key since I've tried with other polishes and never gotten as good results. After a few weeks of use, my nails are very strong and people mistake my at-home manicures for a professional job.